Why we're different

So you have heard it all before. Each lawyer you meet says they are good at what they do and they are different to the next one, but the truth is they are all a different version of the same thing. So why is Forge Legal any different?

We have created 10 pledges to all our clients that formulates the cornerstone of our relationship to our client and how we operate as a firm.

Our Pledges to You:

1. We pledge to tell you the truth

It might seem like an odd thing for a law firm to pledge, but it is quite common for lawyers to tell you what you want to hear not what you need to hear. We will be honest and frank with you about your prospects of success, issues that arise or the commercial viability of your matter. For the first time you come to see us, we will tell you whether you even need a lawyer. If you don’t need us then we will tell you just that.

2. We pledge to respect you and your situation

We understand that speaking to a stranger about your most private issues can be difficult and it is emotionally stressful. Regardless of what you inform us, we won’t judge you. Our job is not to judge anything you may have done. Our job is to guide your matter and actions moving forward to give you the best possible outcome for you, both legally and personally.

3. We pledge to be accountable to you

Lawyers are not beyond reproach. While we have very strict responsibilities impressed upon us by the court, we also have a responsibility to you. If you are not comfortable with the proposed avenue for running your matter, then let us know. We will ensure that the work performed is always to our high standard.

4. We pledge to move your matter forward quickly and strategically

We understand that when you see a lawyer, you are ready to get moving and want to have your matter resolved as soon as possible. To achieve this, we need to move quickly on your matter. We agree to move your matter a minimum of every 2 weeks unless circumstances require otherwise.

5. We pledge to be honest and transparent about costs

Costs are a pain point for most clients. Lawyers are expensive and when you budget for legal fees, it can be a rude shock when suddenly you are caught off guard by another large bill that has to be paid quickly. While it is always difficult to estimate the complete cost of a matter due to unforeseen circumstances that arise, we can provide you with an estimate and then update this for you after each significant event so you always know the costs you are exposed to. To assist with being transparent with costs we will send you itemised invoices each week so you can query any work performed on your matter as it happens and so you can budget your costs.

6. We pledge to care about your matter as though it was our own

We get that going through legal issues, whether it is for your business or fighting to retain custody of your children, is beyond stressful. We also understand that we can’t possibly know the weight that the process is placing upon you. What we can do, however, is treat your matter as though it was our own or that of a close family member. We will go the extra mile for you, making sure that our court preparation is formulated as though it was for our own children and that our Wills are drafted as though we are protecting our own assets. You deserve to be treated as the number one priority to our lawyers.

7. We pledge to listen and understand your needs

It is one thing to say we care but it is another thing entirely to truly listen to you. We will hear you. We will hear not just what you want to achieve, but why you want to achieve it. We will tell you what you need to do to achieve the outcome you are after, legally, practically and emotionally. Afterall, an extraordinary lawyer is one who not only gets the legal process but also gets you.

8. We pledge to respond to your call within 1 business day

There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to speak to someone about your matter when there is an issue pressing on your mind. While a lawyer may sometimes be tied up with court and unable to respond we will ensure that one of our staff always contacts you back to try and alleviate your concerns quickly or obtain a solution for you. Your peace of mind is of paramount importance to us.

9. We pledge to speak to you in a manner that you can understand (no legal jargon)

There is no point to having a lawyer if you really have no understanding of what the lawyer is saying. We believe that the more you understand the process you are going through, the better you can understand the information we need from you, so your matter has better chances of being successful. That is why it is important that we speak to you without all the legal jargon. We will explain the court process to you and why we need various information. We will also clearly explain any proposed agreement before you enter into it so that you will know exactly what you are getting yourself into.

10. We pledge to stand by you even after your matter is over

Your matter doesn’t finish once a court order has been made, you still have the process of ensuring those orders are complied with. We will stay on your matter right up until all of the outstanding issues have been dealt with. Occasionally an issue will arise some 1-2 years later. If it does, we still keep your electronic file so we can assist with any questions. If further action is required you can always give us a call. We love nothing more than to have past clients pop in to give us an update on how their lives have changed and progressed. We live for those moments as it means that all the hard work invested in a matter ended up in a positive outcome for you, our client.

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No matter what issue you might be facing, our friendly team is standing by to help you with any enquiries you might have.

Testimonials:

"I thank you so much for your help. Thank you for your patience and work and your fast response when it was needed. ..."

Annette F

"... I am very grateful for their wonderful support and sound advice over a difficult period of my life. I recommend for anyone who needs peace from these kinds of issue to get in touch, have a chat, and breathe a sigh of relief."

Peter Creagh

"... I could not express how appreciative I am with their professionalism in dealing with my two cases. I would recommend them to anyone who is after such great service!"

Alicia Wade

For the past several years Luke and Alex have been guiding me through a minefield of horribly complicated estate and personal issues. Despite this they have always quoted me a very reasonable fixed price for each solution and just quietly they happily worked more hours than they quoted that is for sure (or stayed up late because I needed it). I am very grateful for their wonderful support and sound advice over a difficult period of my life. I recommend for anyone who needs peace from these kinds of issue to get in touch, have a chat, and breathe a sigh of relief.